Summertime Photo Ready Makeup
Author: Celeste Vanya
It is officially summertime and festival season is in full effect!! When the sun is shining and the cameras are flashing, your makeup needs to serve from every angle. Whether you’re marching in a parade, performing on stage, or just vibing at the main stage, Manhattan Wardrobe Supply has what you need to lock in your look for photo-ready makeup—no matter the heat, humidity, or glitter fallout. Here’s how to create summertime photo ready makeup that slays in natural light and survives the summer.
☀️ 1. Prime Like You Mean It
Before you even think about foundation, prep your canvas! A solid primer like Danessa Myricks Blurring Balm Powder or Mehron Skin Prep Pro can help control oil, grip makeup, and blur pores. For all-day events under the sun, this step is non-negotiable.
Pro Tip: Use a mattifying primer in the T-zone and a hydrating primer on cheeks, like the Glamazon Mystical Veil for a balanced finish.
📷 2. Pick the Right Base for Daylight
Flashback is the nemesis of a good summer photo. Avoid sunscreen, foundations or powders with high SPF or zinc oxide—they can cause that ghostly cast in photos. For SPF we are really in love with the Bask Invisible Gel SPF. We stan Sian Richards Star Face Foundation or our MaqPro & MWS Collab palettes for flawless, natural coverage that plays well with sunlight and cameras.
💦 3. Sweat-Proof & Set
When you’re outdoors in full glam, sweat is the enemy! Long lasting makeup takes intention. Carpe makes products to stop you from sweating from everywhere! The scalp, the face, your pits!!! This is a necessity! Setting your makeup is everything. Use a powder like Ben Nye Neutral Set or Kryolan Anti-Shine Powder, then lock it down with Green Marble SeLr Spray (for heavy-duty days) or Jordanes’ Aqua Bamboo which is a water based formula with actual bamboo!! It’s easier on sensitive skin.
Pro Tip: Carry blotting papers or a mini powder puff for touch-ups on the go!
🌈 4. Play with Bold Color
Sunlight eats color—so go bolder than you think! Amp up the pigment with Kryolan Aquacolor with a mixing medium like Mehron Mixing Liquid. Mehron CreamBlend Sticks come in many fun colors and we promise Ben Nye Lumiere Powders come in shades you will love. Bright blush and eye makeup really pop in summer lighting, and jewel tones look rich in outdoor photography.
Pro Tip: It’s important to set a bright cream color with a powder that is the same color!! This will lock it in and make it more vivid.
✨ 5. Get That Glow (Not That Grease)
Highlighter is your bestie, but placement matters. Stick to the high points of your face—cheekbones, temples, and cupid’s bow—and avoid highlighting the center of your forehead or nose (aka the oily zones). We love Neen’s Pretty Shiny Cream Highlighter and Danessa Myricks Dew Wet Balm for a skin-like radiance that reads beautifully on camera.
🧷 6. Set the Wardrobe, Too
Let’s not forget the outfit! Use Topstick or Fashion Tape to secure costume pieces in place, and stash Stain Remover Wipes. Summertime photo-ready makeup is head to toe, darling!
🎒 Summer Festival Kit Checklist:
Mini mirror
Lip color for touch-ups
Powder puff or blotting sheets
Eyelash glue (just in case!)
Small fan or mister (you’ll thank us later)
Whether you’re voguing on a float or just capturing summer magic on the sidewalk, MWS has the tools to help you show up—and show off—with confidence.